IRCTC to Launch Fifth Shri Ramayana Yatra on July 25 Covering 30 Pilgrimage Sites Across India and Nepal
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is set to roll out the fifth edition of the Shri Ramayana Yatra from July 25, 2025. This 17-day spiritual train journey will cover more than 30 sacred locations linked to Lord Ram across India and Nepal, including Ayodhya, Janakpur, Nashik, and Rameshwaram. Operated via the deluxe Bharat Gaurav AC Tourist Train, the tour offers multiple ticket classes and premium amenities aimed at offering pilgrims a luxurious and immersive religious experience.
The IRCTC’s Shri Ramayana Yatra is part of its Bharat Gaurav tourism initiative, first launched in 2022, which has steadily gained popularity, especially following the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya in January 2024. With increasing demand for faith-based tourism, IRCTC has capitalized on the opportunity by creating detailed, experience-rich itineraries based on India’s religious and cultural legacy. This latest edition aims to cater to the rising number of devotees seeking to follow the mythological trail of Lord Ram. The journey will begin from Delhi’s Safdarjung Railway Station on July 25 and span 17 days, touching important mythological destinations mentioned in the Ramayana. The first stop is Ayodhya, where pilgrims will visit the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Hanuman Garhi, and Ram Ki Paidi at the Saryu Ghat. From there, the train heads to Nandigram, associated with Bharat’s rule in Lord Ram’s absence.
Next, the journey moves to Sitamarhi in Bihar, regarded as Sita’s birthplace, followed by a road journey to Janakpur in Nepal, where the Ram-Janaki Temple stands, symbolizing the sacred marriage of Ram and Sita. Crossing back into India, the train visits Buxar, known for Ramrekha Ghat and Rameshwarnath Temple, locations linked with Ram’s early life. The pilgrimage continues to Varanasi, home to the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, Tulsi Mandir, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir, and the evening Ganga Aarti, offering spiritual immersion on the banks of the holy river. From there, it proceeds to Prayagraj, Shringverpur, and Chitrakoot, all visited by Ram during his 14-year exile.
Midway through the journey, passengers will reach Nashik, where the Trimbakeshwar Temple and the Panchvati forest area will be visited. These sites mark the setting of key episodes in the Ramayana, such as Sita’s abduction by Ravana. The train will then head south to Hampi, believed to be the ancient city of Kishkindha. Sites such as Anjaneya Hill, Vitthala Temple, and Virupaksha Temple form the highlight of this leg. Anjaneya Hill is especially revered as the birthplace of Lord Hanuman.
The final major destination before returning to Delhi is Rameshwaram, where pilgrims will visit the iconic Ramanathaswamy Temple and Dhanushkodi, believed to be the place where Lord Ram built the bridge to Lanka with the help of the Vanara Sena. The entire trip will be facilitated on the Bharat Gaurav Deluxe AC Tourist Train, which IRCTC claims offers a “premium travel experience.” The train includes 1st AC coupe and cabin, 2nd AC, and 3rd AC accommodations, with ticket prices ranging from ₹1,17,975 (3 AC) to ₹1,79,515 (1 AC coupe). Each ticket includes rail fare, hotel stays in 3-star facilities, vegetarian meals, air-conditioned road transport, travel insurance, and services of trained IRCTC tour managers throughout the journey.
The deluxe coaches are equipped with two onboard restaurants, a modern kitchen, foot massagers, shower cubicles, sensor-enabled restrooms, and CCTV surveillance with dedicated security guards in every coach. This focus on safety and comfort is aimed at drawing both domestic and international spiritual tourists. IRCTC officials confirmed that the interest in spiritual tours has grown exponentially post-Ayodhya temple inauguration. “This is the fifth Ramayan tour and the response from devotees and tourists has been overwhelming. We’re committed to giving them a memorable and divine travel experience,” said an IRCTC spokesperson.
Pilgrims booking this tour will not only travel by train but also engage in road travel and overnight stays in locations where required. IRCTC has partnered with local tourism boards to facilitate on-ground logistics, sightseeing tours, and cultural programs to enhance the devotional atmosphere. Booking for the Shri Ramayana Yatra is already open on IRCTC’s official portal and authorized tourism agents. Given the past track record of full bookings for previous editions, IRCTC has advised early reservations. Interested travelers can also opt for EMI payment facilities offered by IRCTC in partnership with multiple banks.
This initiative comes in tandem with India’s broader push to promote religious tourism under the Dekho Apna Desh campaign, and offers a cultural roadmap through some of India’s holiest geographies, fostering a deeper connection to heritage while supporting local economies and tourism industries. With the fusion of luxury and divinity, IRCTC’s Shri Ramayana Yatra has redefined the contours of spiritual travel, making age-old pilgrimages not just accessible but unforgettable for the modern devotee.
